Apparently there are nine types of humour

Humour can affect everyday relationships. Often, if you share the same sense of humour with someone, a friendship forms. eHarmony data scientists have researched humour across the internet and its effect on relationships, especially those of a romantic nature. The researchers have defined nine types of humour - find out which one suits you best below.

Self-deprecating
This form of humour is commonly favoured by stand-up comedians, where they depict themselves as the butt of the joke. An adaption of this humour is also seen on the internet in memes.

Surreal
Surreal humour is derived from illogical events, absurd situations or nonsensical themes. This form of humour is often referred to as ‘silly’. A clear example of surreal humour is almost any film made by Monty Python.

Improvisational
This humour takes place typically between comedians where they attempt to create a skit or content completely unplanned. This form is extremely popular, with successful shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway? and Thank God You’re Here. As the jokes are all made up on the spot, these comedians are exceptionally talented in the field.

Wit or wordplay
Wordplay often involves twisting language in order to achieve humorous results. Today, this is most commonly seen with puns.

Topical
This form of humour relies on comedians talking about or making a mockery of current events and trends. For example, shows like Saturday Night Live, as well as other sketch-based comedy shows or late-night talk shows. In order to understand and enjoy this humour, you need to have a strong understanding of news, elections and pop culture.

Observational
To put it very simply, observational humour is the ability to poke fun at everyday life and activities. Jerry Seinfeld built his career on this type of humour.

Bodily
Often very well received by men and teenagers, bodily humour has a lot to do with bodily functions (i.e. fart jokes).

Dark
This form of humour involves a strong focus on dark, underlying themes and throws a comical element into it.

In the research undertaken by eHarmony, they found dark humour to be the least popular and physical humour coming out on top. It is no surprise the studies showed educated people preferred wit or wordplay humour to be funnier than physical humour.